Mexico Set to Launch First Homegrown Satellites in 2026

Mexico plans to launch its first satellites developed entirely with domestic technology, marking a significant milestone in its space exploration efforts. The Mexican Space Agency, known as AEM, is set to initiate Mission Ixtli, which aims to deploy four Earth observation satellites beginning in December 2026. This initiative will help the country reduce its reliance on foreign satellite data, further establishing its presence in the global space community.

The AEM was established in 2010, but Mexico’s involvement in space research dates back to the 1950s. In recent years, the nation has made strides in developing its space capabilities, collaborating with organizations such as NASA and partnering with China to launch two satellites into low Earth orbit in September 2025. This forthcoming project illustrates Mexico’s growing ambition to enhance its technological independence.

Details of Mission Ixtli

The first satellite of Mission Ixtli is expected to take flight in 2026, with additional launches planned for 2027 and possibly one or two in 2028. The program has garnered support from various institutions, including the National Autonomous University of Mexico and the National Polytechnic Institute. The total budget for the program’s first year is approximately $5.4 million, with expectations that it will increase in subsequent years as the agency aims to utilize more domestic technology.

A key objective of Mission Ixtli is to ensure that at least 50% of the project, including ground stations, is developed in Mexico by the time the project concludes. The planned satellites will not be used for communication or planetary science but will serve multiple observational purposes. They will assist in tracking forest fires, managing agricultural crops, and monitoring certain animal species, all of which currently rely on costly external satellite imagery totaling about $13.6 million annually.

Technological Innovations and Future Impact

The new satellites will employ CubeSat technology, which allows for smaller, modular designs. Each satellite will measure just under four inches per side and weigh approximately 2.2 pounds. Two of the satellites will consist of six modular units, while the other two will feature 16 units. This innovative technology will enable the capture of multispectral images, extending beyond the visible light spectrum.

Although the benefits of Mission Ixtli may not be fully realized for another decade, the project represents a critical step toward Mexico’s independent advancement in space science. It will not only provide vital data for environmental management but also foster the training of future scientists, contributing to the nation’s long-term scientific and technological development.

As Mexico embarks on this ambitious journey, the successful deployment of the Mission Ixtli satellites will showcase the country’s capabilities and mark a new chapter in its space exploration narrative.